Variations on a Scottish Folk Song by Bruce Fraser. For Concert Band (1st Flute, 2nd Flute, Oboe*, 1st Bb Clarinet, 2nd Bb Clarinet, 3rd Bb Clarinet, Bb Bass Clarinet*, Bassoon*, 1st Eb Alto Saxophone*, 2nd Eb Alto Saxophone, Bb Tenor Saxophone*, Eb Baritone Saxophone*, 1st Bb Trumpet, 2nd Bb Trumpet, 3rd Bb Trumpet, 1st F ). Band Music. Grade 3. Score only. Duration 5:45. Published by C. Alan Publications (CN.S11198).
The form and idea for the work belongs particularly to Brian Duguid who had in mind the wonderful Variations on a Korean Folk Song by John Barnes Chance. This setting was to be at a much easier level and to feature traditional Scottish dances and a march as the variations. The song upon which the variations are built is "Ye Banks and Braes," a traditional song with words by Robert Burns. It has a particularly beautiful and strong melody. The work opens creating a peaceful atmosphere with the musicians chanting a drone below some introductory fragments of the theme, which is then stated by the clarinets. The five variations begin with a Strathspey, a traditional dance featuring the "Scottish snap" rhythm, followed by a Reel, another dance in a flowing two beat tempo. The Strathspey is repeated and this is followed by a slow Highland Waltz. The percussion then take us into a traditional road march leading into the final variation which is a jig, gradually building up to a strong ending.